What it is about
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced the establishment of a specialized unit known as the Gaza Envelope LOTAR unit within Division 143. This unit will comprise reservists and veteran elite unit operatives residing in or near the Gaza border communities. Its primary mandate is to provide rapid responses to terrorist incidents in the sector.
Why it matters
The creation of the Gaza Envelope LOTAR unit is critical for enhancing the security and resilience of the communities situated near the Gaza border. Following the devastating terrorist attack on October 7, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi issued directives to bolster defense capabilities based on key learnings from the incident. This new unit underscores Israel’s commitment to safeguarding its homeland and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
Details
According to the IDF spokesperson, soldiers within the unit will receive specialized training tailored to address the unique challenges faced in the sector. Upon completion, they will be certified as skilled operatives capable of addressing threats swiftly and efficiently.
Formation of the unit reflects comprehensive efforts under the Mashiv Haruach initiative, aimed at improving and rehabilitating community defense forces. Several hundred soldiers have already applied to join this unit and are undergoing a rigorous selection process with training set to commence shortly.
The Backdrop
During the unit’s establishment ceremony, conducted with the attendance of Division Commander Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, Unit Commander Lt. Col. (Res.) A., and community security coordinators, the unit commander emphasized the significance of this initiative.
“The establishment of the unit during this period encapsulates the essence of Israel’s story – from destruction to rebirth. The blow we received on October 7, the subsequent recovery, social cohesion, transition to combat and joint action, the beginning of rebuilding and creating a safer future. This is why we gathered here, in the heart of a region that has been battered and suffered so much, where we lost our best people, and now are bringing about the creation of a unit that will serve as a regional anchor and a magnet for all those committed to defending the homeland and continuing to contribute to the state,” he expressed.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.